How long does it take to get a Virginia nursing license?
There are several types of nursing licenses you can apply for. For each license the requirements and steps are different.
But, in general, it will take from 4 to 6 weeks, starting from the day of submitting the application for licensure, to get your license. If there are no missing documents the process will not take long.
If you are a licensed nurse in another state and are going to apply by endorsement, then you will get it within 5 to 6 business days.
To clarify, this is the time it will take to get a license. But it doesn’t include the time you will spend on your education. As depending on the nursing program you choose, it may take up to 4 years to be ready to start your career path.
Requirements for a practical nurse license
If you want to become an LPN, then you should complete high school or its equivalent. You should earn your degree from an approved nursing program. Make sure the nursing program comprises 400 hours. It also should include direct client contact.
If you have graduated from a nursing program in another state or country, which is not approved by the Board, you should pass an additional exam.
Otherwise, after completing your education you will need to pass the NCLEX-PN, gather all the required documents, and apply for the license.
Requirements for a registered nurse license
If to become an LPN the high school diploma will be enough, to become a registered nurse you should also attend and graduate from a professional nursing program. The nursing program should be approved by the Board.
The nursing program should include 500 supervised hours spent with clients. This is for the students, who will be able to gain experience and to understand the basics of working with real-life patients.
After completing your education you should pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Payments and the application process
If you meet the educational requirements, you are ready to pass the NCLEX exam.
The payment for the exam is $200 for each attempt.
After passing the exam you should submit the application to the Virginia Board of Nursing. The payment for the RN license application is $190.
For the LPN license, you will need to pay $170.
Virginia nursing license renewal
Both practical and registered nurses must renew their nursing licenses every two years. 60 days prior to the day, when the license is due to expire, you will receive a license renewal notification from the Board.
To renew the nursing license, you should complete continuing education. It must include 30 hours of professional studies.
Another important piece of information you need to know is that you can also complete 15 hours of continuing education, including 640 hours of practice as a nurse.
For an LPN license, you should pay $120, and for an RN license, the renewal fee is $140. There will be an additional $40/50 fee if your renewal is late.
So, if you are looking for more information, visit the official website of the Virginia Board of Nursing.
Contact information
Virginia Board of Nursing
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300
Henrico, VA 23233
TEL: 804–367–4515
FAX: 804–527–4455
